I know he's considered a national team outsider on these boards, but you have to love his attitude, consistently. Latest example is this in the reading post, where he notes that he's hoping to go with the USMNT to germany next summer, "even if it's as the kit man..." As tiny tim might say... http://www.getreading.co.uk/story.asp?intid=12091
I like how our all our YA are slowly becoming Europeanized DFB said "football" in an interview with USSF, Center Circle
Yes. Yes, he is. He'll take the Meola spot as the #2/#3 spot with Keller and likely Howard. He's a good egg.
I'm really hoping Marcus can make it to the World Cup... and not just as the kit man. He's been a good solid player for many years... and often overlooked here at home. Then again I have a soft spot for former Seattle Sounder players. He does have a great attitude, and I think he'd be a great guy in the locker room too. If you're going to have backups that won't play (as in the case of keepers), you should at least ensure they have the right attitude.
I remember around the ConFed Cup Connelly wrote a report where he said the USA coaches were down on Hahneman from watching him in practice and camp and stuff. ITs great that he's worked his up again to the point that he's back in their good graces. Great job Marcus
There's a little snippet of that interview that I found very enlightening: "The manager asked me if I can handle playing back-up to Kasey because I played every minute of every game this season at Reading..." This is one of the things that makes Bruce Arena a great manager. He sets the expectations very clearly right from the start. Marcus clearly understands that in Arena's eyes, he's competing for a backup position. At the same time, Marcus knows that Arena's been following him and understands that making the switch from an every day starter to bench player may be difficult. With one question, Arena shows both the honesty and empathy his players have raved about for years. If you've ever had a coach, or even a boss in a work setting, who wasn't honest, who didn't set clear expectations, or who wasn't able to show you that they knew where you're coming from, you can probably understand why Arena's players appreciate him so much.
It may be a little known fact that at the first camp Marcus was invited to he showed up to training in camoflauge cut offs.. (according to someone who was working with the Sounders at the time).
I was extremely happy to see Marcus on the roster. Having that kind of depth in Germany next year can only help.
LOL, a "great" manager who lets his players know they'll only be bench fodder no matter how hard they work or how much improvement they show. Who tells you that you're second best and staying that way. Who is so rigid in his thinking that there's no room for adaptation or spontaneity. I can think of plenty of adjectives to describe that sort of attitude, "great" isn't on the same continent. "Marcus, I'm going to be honest with you. That's the sort of stand up guy I am. There's no chance in hell you'll ever start a match for us with Kasey here. Hell, you ain't worthy of holding his jock. But we like the fact that you're not a troublemaker or question my pre-conceived notions so we'll keep you around for your intimidating looks. After all, I DO feel your pain, you know"
I dunno, that interview sounded to me like a lot of the British-isms were edited in. On the other hand, I guess it would be natural to start using those phrases after a year or so of being immersed in the culture. I wonder if he's picked up a Friedel-esque accent?
In the mixed blessings department, his team rewards him with a rather bizarre vote of confidence, loaning out the number 2 and probably the number 3 keepers on the squad (hints they'll look for another keeper as well, but unlikely to pop for anything as good as their number 2, given the fact that with limited money they're looking to sign offense). http://www.getreading.co.uk/story.asp?intid=12116 So, playing time isn't much of a question for next season then, is it.
eight. counting bobby, seven. I remember watching Hahneman back in the day with the Rapids ... always nice to see somebody be rewarded for years of hard work. He's one pulled hammy from starting for a World Cup caliber squad .... I think he's got the talent and a good enough head on his shoulders to handle it
Since he's been there... playing time has never been much of a question. He moved in, took over the #1 spot, and they've not had cause to look elsewhere ever since.
Agreed, but they've always had a professional keeper on the books in the number 2 slot. they may not this year. there's faith, and then there's faith.